Expect Union to line up in their usual 3-4-2-1, with wing-backs providing the width and two number tens tucked in behind the striker. They'll look to compress the midfield, force Frankfurt wide, and hit on the break. The double pivot of Frankfurt — likely Raphael Onyedika alongside a partner — will have to be sharp to avoid being overrun in the middle. Union's second-ball merchants will feast if Frankfurt get sloppy in possession.

Frankfurt will stick with their 4-2-3-1, with Mario Götze pulling the strings in the hole and Jonathan Burkardt leading the line. Can Uzun and Ansgar Knauff offer pace and directness on the flanks. The concern? Robin Koch's concussion in the Brentford friendly — if he's not fit, the back line loses its leader. Jeremiaha Maluze may step in, but that's a downgrade in experience. Against Union's physical, direct style, that could be a real vulnerability.

The game state is key. Union will not come out gung-ho. They'll sit in a mid-to-low block, invite Frankfurt onto them, and look to nick something from a set-piece or a quick transition. Frankfurt will dominate possession but may find the final pass elusive against a packed box. This has the makings of a chess match, not a basketball game.